Home » America Travel News » Portugal, Spain, United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, Ireland, France, Mexico, New Zealand, And Costa Rica Emerge As America’s Most Desired Countries To Relocate Abroad In 2025

Friday, May 30, 2025

As more Americans explore opportunities beyond their borders, Portugal, Spain, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, Ireland, France, Mexico, New Zealand, and Costa Rica have emerged as the most sought-after destinations for relocation in 2025. This growing trend is driven by a combination of factors including political stability, affordable living costs, high-quality healthcare, and welcoming expatriate communities. Many Americans are seeking safer environments, better work-life balance, and access to diverse cultures, all of which these countries offer in abundance. Additionally, flexible visa policies and strong English proficiency in several of these nations make the transition smoother for U.S. citizens. Together, these attributes position these countries as prime choices for those looking to start a new chapter abroad.

A recent study by a global relocation services company highlights Portugal as the top destination for Americans thinking about emigrating. Surveying over 116,000 U.S. citizens with an in-depth questionnaire that considered factors like climate preference, financial considerations, language, and lifestyle choices, the report reveals a clear shift toward relocation. Nearly one in five Americans are now seriously considering moving abroad, driven by a mix of political dissatisfaction, lifestyle changes, and a search for greater security and personal growth. Among the main reasons cited for leaving the U.S. are a desire for adventure and personal enrichment, closely followed by concerns related to political polarization and social unrest.

Portugal’s appeal is bolstered by a record surge in tourism, with official statistics showing that over 140,000 American visitors arrived in the country in November 2023 alone—setting a new monthly record. Beyond Portugal, other top destinations on Americans’ relocation lists include Spain, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, Ireland, France, Mexico, New Zealand, and Costa Rica.

Several key factors contribute to Portugal’s growing reputation as a prime relocation choice. It ranks seventh globally on the 2024 Global Peace Index, reflecting its reputation for safety and political stability—important considerations for those seeking a secure living environment. Portugal’s healthcare system is another significant attraction. The public health network provides a wide range of services, including free treatments such as in vitro fertilization, while the private sector offers affordable and quality care—a stark contrast to the high costs common in the United States. Additionally, the country boasts a comparatively low cost of living, especially in expat-favored areas like the Algarve region, where daily expenses can be as low as one-third of what they would be in many parts of the U.S.

Retirees are a major demographic among those choosing Portugal. The country ranks second worldwide and first in Europe in the 2024 Annual Global Retirement Index. Its mild climate, beautiful coastlines, and welcoming expatriate communities provide an ideal setting for those looking to enjoy a relaxed and comfortable retirement abroad.

Portugal’s progressive social values further enhance its attractiveness. The nation is widely recognized for its strong anti-discrimination laws and marriage equality, positioning it as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries globally. This inclusivity has drawn many same-sex couples from the U.S. and the UK to establish new roots there. Language is also less of a barrier compared to other countries; Portugal ranks eighth in global English proficiency, making adaptation easier for English-speaking newcomers who may not yet be fluent in Portuguese.

From a legal and residency perspective, Portugal offers flexible visa options catering to different types of migrants. These include the Golden Visa for investors, the D7 Visa designed for retirees and those with passive income, and the D8 Visa tailored for digital nomads. Obtaining residency status opens access to free healthcare and education, and after five years, residents can apply for Portuguese citizenship. This grants them the ability to live, work, and travel freely across all 27 European Union member states—a highly attractive benefit for those seeking broader mobility.

As demand for relocation rises, practical steps for those considering Portugal are becoming increasingly important. Early actions such as securing a NIF (tax identification number) and opening a local bank account are now common among prospective residents, facilitating smoother transitions and integration into Portuguese life.

Portugal, Spain, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, Ireland, France, Mexico, New Zealand, and Costa Rica are the top destinations for Americans relocating abroad in 2025, thanks to their political stability, affordable living, quality healthcare, and welcoming communities. Flexible visa options and strong English proficiency also make these countries highly attractive for a smooth transition.

In summary, Portugal’s combination of safety, affordability, quality healthcare, inclusive society, and welcoming visa policies continues to position it as a premier choice for Americans looking to relocate abroad—transforming the country from a favored vacation spot into a thriving expatriate haven.

Tags: American expats, Canada, Costa Rica, france, global relocation trends, ireland, Italy, mexico, new zealand, overseas relocation 2025, Portugal, relocation destinations, spain, United Kingdom